Ragweed Forge has supplied Scandinavian knives and knife-making parts for nearly 30 years, and many of the makers featured here build on blades we stock ourselves: Lauri from Finland, Helle from Norway, Roselli and Nordic Edge. That means I already know the steel and heat treatment under many of these handles before a knife ever reaches this page. What I look at closely is the work the maker adds: how well the handle is shaped and fitted to the hand, how cleanly the guard and spacers are finished, and whether the sheath holds the knife snugly and securely.
Some of the Makers You'll Find Here
Skala Custom Knives (Ron Skala) – Ron builds most of his knives on Lauri, Helle, Roselli and Nordic Edge blades and is best known for natural handle materials: red stag and whitetail antler, kudu, bos bok and ram's horn, along with hardwoods like leopardwood, padauk and walnut. Many of his finger guards and pommels are hand-made from salvaged brass or aluminum, and each knife comes with a decorated, hand-stitched leather sheath. His work ranges from neck knives and puukkos to leuku-style choppers.
Thacker Knives – Scandinavian-inspired puukko, bushcraft and EDC patterns, including the "Bruk" series. Blade steels range from 440C stainless to twist Damascus and Damasteel. Thacker also makes kitchen knives, such as an 8" 440C chef's knife with a stabilized curly birch handle.
Pete's Custom Knives – Some of the most detailed work in the collection: all-around puukkos on Lauri 95 blades with turquoise or TruStone handles and copper or gold web inlays, Mokume Gane fittings, and hunters such as a Scagel-style knife with a convex-ground 80CrV2 blade.
Kola Woodcraft Knives – Named designs built on Helle blades, including The Little Helle, The Helle Polar Bear and The Forest Companion. Kola Woodcraft also designed the Ragweed Forge ferro rod. Absolutely wonderful fit and finish.
Pecks Woods Leather – Pieces from our own leather shop: knives with black walnut, cherry and maple handles with G10 spacers, neck knives, and complete kits that pair a knife with a ferro rod, diamond sharpener and leather sheath. Awesome rustic builds that will hold up to anything you put them to.
More makers – New pieces also arrive from JL Knives, JBL Knives, R. Nurmi, Mad Toad Leathercraft & Knives and TYR/DRP Workshop. To see the full range each maker has offered, browse our Previously Sold Custom collection.
Custom Knives: Frequently Asked Questions
Is a custom knife worth it compared to a production knife like a Mora?
A Mora is a superb working knife for the money, and I recommend one to almost every beginner. A custom knife makes sense when you want a handle material, shape or finish that production knives don't offer, or a one-off piece built by a single maker. Many of the customs here are built on proven Scandinavian blades like Lauri and Helle, so you get a known, reliable steel with a handmade handle and sheath.
How much do custom knives cost?
Most pieces in this collection fall between about $50 and $500, depending on the maker, the blade and the handle material. Knives with natural antler, horn or turquoise handles and Damascus or Damasteel blades sit at the higher end.
Will a sold knife come back in stock?
Not in identical form, because every piece is one of a kind. Makers often work in series, though, so similar knives do come in. Check Previously Sold Custom to see each maker's past work, and sign up for our newsletter to hear when new pieces arrive.
Can I use rewards points on custom knives?
No. Custom knives aren't eligible for earning or redeeming rewards points.
Can I return a custom knife?
Yes, within two weeks, as long as it comes back in the same condition it was sent. See our Refund Policy for details.
How fast will my knife ship?
Every knife listed as available is in stock and ready to go. Orders placed by 2 PM EST ship the same day from the USA, and US shipping is free on orders of $120 or more.
How do I care for a handmade knife with a natural handle?
Never put it in the dishwasher or let it soak in water. Wipe the knife clean and dry after use, and give carbon steel blades a light coat of oil before storage. Wood, antler and horn are natural materials, so color and grain vary from piece to piece. That's part of what makes each knife unique.
Interested in becoming one of our featured makers?
Please contact Redbeard and send some knives for review
